Lil' Leaders is a podcast for kids that celebrates the traits, experiences, and actions that make leaders effective. We’ll hear from real school-age leaders nationwide that are making an impact in our world today and close our time with a picture book recommendation supporting, inspiring, and inviting children to lead in our ever-changing world. Join us as we explore and celebrate kids like you, who are growing into their best version of themselves while impacting others one step at a time. Hosted by a teacher, author, parent, and life-long learner just like you.
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Meet Myra, a fifth-grade entrepreneur who proves you’re never too young to make a difference. After watching videos from her mom’s trip to India helping a school for visually impaired girls, Myra felt inspired to take action. She founded her own nonprofit—Sparklez.org—to provide eyewear and vision care for girls in need. But she didn’t stop there! Myra rallied other young entrepreneurs and organized a children’s business fair, where kids could share their creative work and support her cause as well as theirs. In this inspiring episode, Myra shares her journey, the power of starting now, and why helping others can be more impactful when we work as a team.
Picture Book Recommendations:
a. Kidpreneurs: Young Entrepreneurs with Big Ideas!
Authors: Adam & Matthew Toren Illustrator: Turonny Foo
Created by two life-long entrepreneurs, Kidpreneurs outlines the basic tools and strategies kids can use to gain valuable experience in starting, managing, and growing a successful business venture.
Using kid-friendly design and illustration, we break down some of the major points of entrepreneurship, so your child can have fun as he or she learns. They'll discover:
What is an entrepreneur?
How do I start my own business?
What are business ethics and sustainability?
Why is it so important to give back to others?
b. What's the Worst that Could Happen?
Authors: Julia Cook & Garrett Gunderson Illustrator: Josh Cleland
Encourage financial literacy in kids of all ages with this fun and engaging picture book from bestselling children's author Julia Cook and financial expert Garrett Gunderson!
Who better to teach kids about money than MONEY himself? As readers follow along in this delightful, easy-to-understand picture book, they'll learn:
how to earn money
how to save money
how to spend money (wisely)
and the most important thing: how to give it away to help others!
Kids will also be introduced to the different forms money can take like cash, cards, and even crypto! Additional fun facts and money tips in the back , make this book a great classroom resource, teaching tool for curious kids, or first finance book for aspiring entrepreneurs!
Cool Q's For Discussion:
1. What stood out to you most about Myra’s story?
2. Myra says there's no time like the present to start—what’s something you’ve been wanting to try or create?
2. How does working together with others make a difference when you're trying to help a cause?
3. If you could organize a business fair with your friends, what kind of booth or project would you want to do?
4. Myra used her creativity to help others. Can you think of a way to use your talents to support a cause that matters to you?
5. What is your main takeaway from today’s episode with Myra?
Have a great week everyone!
Keep Leading and Keep Reading,
Tina
Pueble Power Habits: Middle School Skills That Matter
Season 2 · Episode 20
Friday, May 23, 2025 • Duration 17:34
In this special episode, 6th graders at Pueblo Middle School team up to share the power habits they’ve been practicing to become confident, successful students and strong role models. From being proactive and solving problems to finding their voice and taking care of themselves, each group dives into one habit and explains how it helps them handle everyday challenges. This episode is designed to inspire younger kids with simple, real-life examples of how these habits can make middle school less stressful—and more awesome. Whether you're just starting out or already navigating the halls, these Pueblo Power Habits will help you thrive!
Tune in for skills kids can work on over the summer to build confidence and connection before heading into middle school. This was such a special collaboration with a classroom full of Lil’ Leaders—a heartfelt thank you to Mrs. Eastin, who inspired her students to lead with purpose and positivity.
Picture Book Recommendations:
a. The Creature of Habit
Author: Jennifer E. Smith Illustrator: Leo Espinosa
A very big creature with big teeth, big eyes, and very big feet lives on the island of Habit. Every day the creature happily does the exact same things in the exact same order.
That is, until a small boat carrying a very small creature with small teeth, small eyes, and very, very small feet arrives on the island. The big creature is excited to share his routine, but the small creature has ideas of his own. The little creature does something different every day--it's madness to the big creature!
Can these two creatures learn to understand each other? Is the island big enough for both of them? Colorful and captivating, this is a story about learning with and from your friends.
b. The Day My Clock Broke
Moch Fajar Shobaru
Little Justice Leaders: Sparking Big Conversations For Change
Season 2 · Episode 10
Wednesday, January 15, 2025 • Duration 12:13
This week, we're sitting down with the incredibly dedicated Shelby, the creator of Little Justice Leaders, to talk about how they're creating the next generation of changemakers!
From schools to living rooms, Shelby and her team are making social justice education accessible and engaging for kids and adults alike. Whether it's helping parents tackle tough topics or giving teachers the tools to foster meaningful conversations, their work is transforming communities one lesson at a time.
Shelby shares the "why" behind Little Justice Leaders, the impact they're making, and how small conversations can spark big change.
Ready to raise a changemaker? Don’t miss this empowering conversation!
Picture Book Recommendations:
a. Peaceful Fights For Equal Rights
Author: Rob Sanders Illustrator: Jared Andrew Schorr
Protesting. Standing up for what’s right. Uniting around the common good—kids have questions about all of these things they see and hear about each day. Through sparse and lyrical writing, Rob Sanders introduces abstract concepts like “fighting for what you believe in” and turns them into something actionable. Jared Schorr’s bold, bright illustrations brings the resistance to life making it clear that one person can make a difference. And together, we can accomplish anything.
Macy and Tru are putting on a spectacular talent show to highlight the ways they love to perform. Other kids arrive, eager to participate but unsure if they’ll be welcomed. Since the two sisters know that everything is a lot more fun when everybody’s included, they’re determined to find a role in the show for each person. Inspiring, encouraging, and packed with joy, Everyone Belongs reminds us that it’s possible to make room for all people and all abilities—and that life is brighter when we give every person a chance to shine.
Balance & Joy: Olivia Genesis Leads Her Way
Season 2 · Episode 9
Wednesday, January 1, 2025 • Duration 10:14
Welcome Olivia Genesis to today's episode!
She’s a Lil’ Leader who’s always on the move—kicking it in karate, shining as a model, singing her heart out, writing a book for kids, and helping others with kindness. But Olivia’s true superpower? Knowing when to say, “This isn’t the right fit,” so she can keep discovering what she loves most.
With so much on her plate, Olivia strives to master the art of balancing her time, making sure there’s always room for quiet moments like crocheting to unwind. She reminds us all that balance is the key to being your best self.
Don’t miss this inspiring episode—tune in to hear Olivia’s story!
From Marianne Richmond, who has has touched the lives of more than six million readers over two decades, The World is Awaiting You is a new book relishing the cusp of a new beginning, when you are poised to bring all of your unique gifts to the world. Let's celebrate YOU and all the possibilities on the horizon! Today is your bright beginning, to think and feel and do. Make your own mark. Believe in your spark. The world is awaiting you!
b. I Got This! I Have Bounce Back Superpowers
Author: Julia Cook & Michele Borba Illustrator: Dale Crawford
"The path you will take is steep and bumpy. There are no shortcuts. To make it to the top, you'll need to use your BOUNCE BACK SUPERPOWERS."
Charlie has wanted to be a rescue dog since he was a puppy. But getting his certification as an official Rescue Dog requires a climb to the very top of the tallest mountain!
With the help of his friends, Charlie sets out on a big adventure. Soon enough, obstacles begin to show up that test his determination. Charlie learns six Bounce Back Superpowers that allow him to overcome challenges and stay on the path. Through this story, readers will learn ways to:
Vindhy's Inspiration: The Art of Listening and Being You
Season 2 · Episode 8
Wednesday, December 18, 2024 • Duration 11:44
In today's episode, we meet a talented and inspiring young guest named Vindhy! She loves Bollywood dancing, gymnastics, and singing. With a big dream of becoming a singer someday, she shares how being recognized as Student of the Month taught her the value of listening and learning from others. She also loves reading and believes being true to yourself means knowing how to say no to things that don’t feel right for you. Get ready to hear her story, her advice, and how she’s already shining bright while staying true to herself!
Picture Book Recommendations:
a. Once Upon A Book
Author & Illustrator: Grace Lin & Kate Messner
A modern folktale about the joy of reading.
Once upon a time, there was a girl. She went to a place alive with colors, where even the morning dew was warm.
Alice loves to imagine herself in the magical pages of her favorite book. So when it flaps its pages and invites her in, she is swept away to a world of wonder and adventure, riding camels in the desert, swimming under the sea with colorful fish, floating in outer space, and more! But when her imaginative journey comes to an end, she yearns for the place she loves best of all.
Paired with vibrant illustrations, this lyrical, expressive story invites the reader to savor each page and indulge in the power of imagination.
b. My Bollywood Dream
Author &Illustrator: Avani Dwivedi
It’s Friday night, and on the bustling streets of Mumbai, a girl heads out with her family to the cinema. As she rides through the winding blocks with her maa, baba, and bhai, old melodies fill the car. And as she captures the sights and sounds of the city with her camera, she imagines a movie unfolding before her eyes. A choreographed dance sequence atop a long line of cars! When they arrive at the screening, the room is abuzz with people from all walks of life, waiting to lose themselves in the show. And finally comes the best part: time for everyone to jump up and dance! First-time author-illustrator Avani Dwivedi offers a buoyant, whimsically illustrated love letter to Mumbai and Bollywood—and to children everywhere eager to take mastery of their dreams.
Paige's Journey: The Power of Trying
Season 2 · Episode 7
Wednesday, December 4, 2024 • Duration 10:34
Have you ever tried something new and realized it wasn’t for you? Today's guest, Paige, has been exploring her passions since she was just 3 years old! Whether it’s dancing, acting, or modeling, Paige keeps trying new things—even when they don’t always work out—because each step brings her closer to what she truly loves. Each step also gives to the confidence to try the next interest. We can’t wait for you to enjoy our conversation!
Picture Book Recommendations:
a. Hooray For You
Author & Illustrator: Marianne Richmond
Hooray for You! is a celebration of You-Ness, the grand sum of mind, body and heart that makes every person truly unique by bestselling author Marianne Richmond.
Look in the mirror.
Love who you see.
Stand tall.
Smile big.
Shout, "Hooray for me!"
A welcome appreciation of the wonderfulness in us all that makes the perfect kindergarten book to celebrate what makes your kids unique!
b. I Will Be Fierce
Author: Bea Birdsong Illustrator: Nidhi Chanani
Full of positive encouragement to find something you're passionate about and how to get started on making a big difference through small actions, this brilliant factbook for kids is a treasure trove of information and great advice.
I Will Be Fierce is a powerful picture book about courage, confidence, kindness, and finding the extraordinary in everyday moments. It's a brand new day, and a young girl decides to take on the world like a brave explorer heading off on an epic fairytale quest. From home to school and back again, our hero conquers the Mountain of Knowledge (the library), forges new bridges (friendships), and leads the victorious charge home on her steed (the school bus).
Parenting & Podcasting: Andi Smiley's Guide to Kid-Approved Listening
Season 2 · Episode 6
Wednesday, November 20, 2024 • Duration 17:26
Today, we’re so excited to welcome Andi Smiley to our Big Leader Feature! Andi is the creator of the Family Podcast Guide, a wonderful resource that helps parents find fun, educational podcasts for the whole family. She’s here to share how her guide makes screen-free fun easier and helps families laugh, learn, and connect.
Andi’s work doesn’t stop there—she’s also building a supportive podcasting community where parents can share ideas, network, and even start their own podcasts!
Join us as Andi gives us a peek behind the curtain of the Family Podcast Guide and inspires us all to dive into the world of family-friendly podcasting.
Do your children realize they have one of life's greatest gifts, the ability to make choices that determine how their day will go?
Life can be rough. We can't always control what will happen, but we can always decide how we respond to it. When we teach kids that they have the power to choose their reactions, it shifts everything! By choosing positive actions, kids feel happier and build lifelong healthy habits.
No more, "I can't, I don't know, or I'm not!" My Magical Choices presents 13 "I choose" statements that empower children to take responsibility for their days and inspire them to use conscious language and choose to be calm, forgiving, brave, honest, friendly, and much more.
b. The Little Book of Listening
Author: Zach Bush & Laurie Friedman Illustrator: Vitor Lopes
Listening to others one of the most important social skills that children can learn. There’s so much to know about listening—how to do it and why it is an essential tool for good relationships at home, at school, and on the playground. It’s all introduced in The Little Book of Listening! With this book, young readers will learn valuable social skills that will help them get along better with siblings, friends, adults, and schoolmates. The Little Book of Listening breaks it all down and shows kids concrete examples of how they can listen to others and why it is so important.
It Matters To Me: Harriet's Heart For Giving & Inclusion
Season 2 · Episode 5
Wednesday, November 6, 2024 • Duration 12:32
Welcome to today’s episode!
Today on the Lil' Leaders Podcast, meet Harriet! She’s a young girl with a huge heart, on a mission to make sure everyone feels included and loved. Through her charity work, Harriet proves that even small acts of kindness can create a ripple effect of positivity and make the world a better place. Be inspired by her understanding of how important it is to life others up. Let's get started!
Picture Book Recommendations:
a. Don't Be Afraid To Drop
Author: Julia Cook Illustrator: Anna Laura Sullivan
What happens when one little raindrop finds the courage to let go?
Way up in the sky, Hopp the raindrop is scared of change. Hopp loves playing with his friends, riding on clouds, and being happy with his safe, predictable life. But he soon learns that staying where he is limits the impact he can have on those around him.
"You have so many gifts to share with the world, so many dreams to live. Take a chance little man, let go of this cloud. Discover the ways you can give."
Don't Be Afraid to Drop is a book for anyone who is at a transitional point in their life. From the kindergartener heading to school, to an adult nearing retirement, and everyone in between, this creative analogy provides all who read it with a positive perspective on change, taking risks, and giving back. There's so much good that can happen when we step beyond our comfort zones and try something new!
b. How To Make a Better World
Author: Keilly Swift Illustrator: Jamie Margolin
Full of positive encouragement to find something you're passionate about and how to get started on making a big difference through small actions, this brilliant factbook for kids is a treasure trove of information and great advice. There's a lot that can be changed by just one person if you know what to do. If you are a kid with big dreams and a passion for what is right, you just might be a world-changer in the making! Through ideas as small as creating a neighborhood lending library to as important as public speaking and how to talk about politics, How to Make a Better World is a practical guide to activism for children. Well-written and divided into sections on You, Community, Environment, and more, this educational book helps children to look at what they might like to achieve, and the logical approach makes it easy to navigate if you want to tie topics up with school projects. Brightly illustrated inclusive art makes this factbook as visually appealing as its message. You can easily jump around without any loss of comprehension and dip in for short or longer periods. Learn about tricky social interactions like friendship fallouts, or bullying and how to maneuver them, or find out how to go about creating activist campaigns to tackle climate change or social injustice. If kids are to think positive thoughts and be part of movements for positive change, they need to be encouraged to do it. This book is full of wonderful facts about the world, presenting such positivity as cool, sensible, exciting, and achievable. The perfect starter book to activism for kids.
Unlocking Reading Success: The Power of Eyewords
Season 2 · Episode 4
Wednesday, October 16, 2024 • Duration 21:49
Welcome to today’s episode! I’m excited to introduce our guest, Jen Orr, the creator of Eyewords Learning. Jen developed a unique way to help kids learn to read by using the science of how our brains work best. Her program, Eyewords, combines seeing, hearing, and touching all at once to make learning easier. It connects the sounds, letters, and meanings of words in a way that helps kids remember them faster and feel more confident. Jen’s method makes reading fun again, step by step, and we’re thrilled to hear her story and how Eyewords can help kids. Let’s get started!
Picture Book Recommendations:
a. How Rocket Learned to Read
Author &Illustrator: Tad Hills
Learn to read with this New York Times-bestselling picture book, starring an irresistible dog named Rocket and his teacher, a little yellow bird. Follow along as Rocket masters the alphabet, sounds out words, and finally . . . learns to read all on his own!
With a story that makes reading fun—and will even help listeners learn to read—this book is ideal for kindergarten classrooms and story hour or as a gift for that beginning reader.
b. A Walk in the Words
Author & Illustrator: Hudson Talbott
Hudson Talbott's inspiring story vividly reveals the challenges--and ultimately the rewards--of being a non-mainstream kind of learner.
When Hudson Talbott was a little boy, he loved drawing, and it came naturally to him. But reading? No way! One at a time, words weren't a problem, but long sentences were a struggle. As his friends moved on to thicker books, he kept his slow reading a secret. But that got harder every year. He felt alone, lost, and afraid in a world of too many words.
Fortunately, his love of stories wouldn't let him give up. He started giving himself permission to read at his own pace, using the words he knew as stepping-stones to help draw him into a story. And he found he wasn't so alone--in fact, lots of brilliant people were slow readers, too. Learning to accept the fact that everyone does things in their own unique way, and that was okay, freed him up and ultimately helped Hudson thrive and become the fabulous storyteller he is today.
Lifting Each Other Up: With Smiles and Teamwork
Season 2 · Episode 3
Wednesday, October 2, 2024 • Duration 13:23
Lifting Each Other Up : With Smiles And Teamwork
What does it take to be a true leader in the face of challenges? Meet Sahasra, today's Lil' Leader! This incredible 7th grader has a heart full of empathy, always finding ways to help those in need. Even when faced with unexpected situations and comments, Sahasra stays optimistic and encourages her classmates to work together for the greater good. In her episode, you'll be inspired by her powerful approach to lifting others up. Don't miss out on this uplifting conversation!
Picture Book Recommendations:
a. I Got the School Spirit
Author: Connie Schofield-Morrison Illustrator: Frank Morrison
Summer is over, and this little girl has got the school spirit! She hears the school spirit in the bus driving up the street--VROOM, VROOM!--and in the bell sounding in the halls--RING-A-DING! She sings the school spirit in class with her friends--ABC, 123!
The school spirit helps us all strive and grow. What will you learn today?
This exuberant celebration of the first day of school illustrated by award-winning illustrator Frank Morrison will have every kid cheering for school to begin!
b. Remarkably You
Author: Pat Zietlow Miller Illustrator: Patrice Barton
Heartfelt and timeless, Remarkably You is an inspirational manifesto about all of the things—little or small, loud or quiet—that make us who we are. Great for sharing and gifting, especially to celebrate your remarkable graduate.
New York Times bestselling author Pat Zietlow Miller celebrates individuality in her remarkable picture book about the beauty of being yourself.
With encouraging text and exuberant illustrations by Patrice Barton, readers will delight in all the ways they can be their remarkable selves.
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Safe inside his cozy nest, a young bird considers whether or not to give his new wings a try. What if he tries and the wings don’t work, and he flails, plummets, and looks foolish? Then again, what if his wings take him swooping and gliding, sailing and flying through a great big wonderful world? He’ll never know if he never endeavors. With the help of her bold, beautiful collage artwork, Caldecott Honor-winning artist Holly Meade offers a gentle nudge for hesitant fledglings of all ages and species to step out, to dare, to try . . . and to fly.
Cool Q's For Discussion:
1. Which habit do you think would help you the most right now, and why?
(Example: Do you need help with staying organized, solving problems with friends, or feeling more confident?)
2. What does "being proactive" mean to you, and can you think of a time you made a good choice without being told?
3. When you have a lot to do, how do you decide what to do first? How could the "prioritize" habit help you?
4. What does it mean to "seek first to understand, then to be understood"? How could that help you in a disagreement with a friend or sibling?
5. "Sharpening the tool" means taking care of yourself. What’s one thing you do to recharge your body or brain when you feel tired, frustrated, or overwhelmed?
6. What is your main takeaway from today’s episode?
Have a great week everyone!
Keep Leading and Keep Reading,
Tina
Cool Q's For Discussion:
1. What does being a changemaker mean to you, and how can you start making a difference in your community today?
2. What are some tough topics that you think are important to talk about, and how can we approach those conversations with kindness and curiosity?
3. What role do you think kids, parents, and teachers play in creating a fair and just world?
4. Can you think of a time when you learned something that changed how you see the world? How did it impact you?
5. What’s one small step we can take as a family to practice social justice in our everyday lives?
6. What is your main takeaway from today’s episode with Shelby?
Have a great week!
Keep Leading and Keep Reading,
Tina
approach difficulties with calm resolve
think creatively about possible solutions
break problems into manageable steps
take a "paws" now and then to recharge before moving forward
With friendship, encouragement, and wisdom, the next new Rescue Dog might just grow up before your eyes - and have an immediate opportunity to make a difference.
Cool Q's For Discussion:
What’s one new activity you’ve tried recently? How did you know if it was the right fit for you?
2. How do you manage your time when you have a lot of things to do? Do you have any tips that work for you?
3. Olivia enjoys crocheting as a way to destress. What’s something you enjoy during your quiet time to relax or destress?
4. Have you tried to help others by modeling how to do something, like Olivia did? What was it?
5. Why do you think it’s important to take breaks and enjoy quiet moments, especially when you have a busy schedule?
6. What is your main takeaway from today’s episode with Olivia?
Have a great week everyone!
Keep Leading and Keep Reading,
Tina
Cool Q's For Discussion:
1. How can you be a better listener? Why does Vindhy feel listening is important?
2. What does it mean to be true to yourself? How can you say no to things you don’t like?
3. If you want to follow your dreams, how can you find help like Vindhy did with her brother?
4. How can you try new things while still doing what you already love?
5. What is your main takeaway from today’s episode with Vindhy?
Have a great week!
Keep Leading and Keep Reading,
Tina
Cool Q's For Discussion:
1. Paige talks about how trying new things helped her discover her passions. What’s something new you’ve tried recently, and how did it make you feel?
2. Paige says that to be your best self, you have to know what you like. What are some things you’ve discovered about yourself that make you happy?
3. Confidence comes from doing things we love. What’s one activity or hobby that makes you feel confident?
4. Paige encourages kids to try new things. What’s one activity you’ve always wanted to try, and what’s stopping you?
5. After hearing Paige’s story, how do you think exploring new interests can help you learn more about yourself?
6. What is your main takeaway from today’s episode with Paige?
Have a great week!
Keep Leading and Keep Reading,
Tina
Cool Q's For Discussion:
1. What kinds of podcasts do you think your family would enjoy most together?
2. How could a family podcast routine help you connect and learn together?
3. What ideas do you have for creating a podcast after hearing Andi’s tips?
4. How could listening to podcasts add variety to your family’s screen-free activities?
5. How might joining a podcast community benefit your family?
6. What is your main takeaway from today’s episode?
Have a great week!
Keep Leading and Keep Reading,
Tina
Cool Q's For Discussion:
1. How does Harriet’s belief in "it shouldn’t have to happen to you to matter to you" resonate with you? Can you think of a time when you applied this in your life?
2. Harriet makes sure her brother, who is autistic, feels included. What are some ways we can promote inclusion for people of all abilities in our own communities?
3. Harriet’s charity work, like blessing boxes and Block Love Charlotte, shows her commitment to giving back. What causes or acts of kindness are you passionate about supporting?
4. How do you think Harriet balances her charity work, modeling, acting, and school at such a young age? What can we learn from her about time management and following multiple passions?
5. What are some ways you can encourage inclusivity and kindness in your everyday life, inspired by Harriet's story?
Have a great week!
Keep Leading and Keep Reading,
Tina
Cool Q's For Discussion:
1. Why did Jen Orr create Eyewords, and how does it help kids learn to read?
2. How does Eyewords meet kids where they are in their reading journey?
3. How can learning to read with Eyewords make reading fun again?
4. What is the step-by-step process of Eyewords, and how does it help build confidence in reading?
5. What is your main takeaway from today’s episode with Jen Orr and Eyewords Learning?
Have a great week!
Keep Leading and Keep Reading,
Tina
You might go unnoticed, or shine like a star, but wherever you go and whoever you are… don’t change how you act to be just like the rest. Believe in yourself and the things you do best.
Cool Q's For Discussion:
How did moving from India to the Canada change Sahasra's perspective on helping others who struggle?
2. What strategies does Sahasra use to encourage kids in group projects to collaborate, when they don’t see eye to eye at first?
3. How does Sahasra stay focused on the positive things about herself when others may exclude her or say unkind things?
4. Would you handle these situations the same way Sahasra did? Why or why not?
5. What is your main takeaway from today’s episode with Sahasra?
